Minister of National Planning, Housing, and Infrastructure Mohamed Aslam has officially inaugurated a new park developed in Faresmaathoda, Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll.
The park was opened at a special ceremony by Minister Aslam with High Commissioner of India to the Maldives Munu Mahawar and Minister of Health Ahmed Naseem in attendance. After the opening, a sports tournament was held with participation from island residents.
The park was built on the location that previously had the island’s landfill. The park is designed for outdoor and recreational activities and is expected to host public gatherings and events. The park consists of a special area for children, a badminton court, outdoor gym, and a pond.
The development of the park is one of the projects financed by the USD17 million grant assistance from the Government of India for the High Impact Community Development Project through local bodies (HICDP) initiative. Projects implemented under the grant scheme include the establishment of neighbourhood fish processing plants, development of tourism zones, establishment of a water bottling factory, acquisition of sea ambulances and strengthening inclusive education support units in three schools. The scheme also helps strengthen government’s efforts in fostering socio-economic development in local communities by promoting health and wellbeing, empowerment of youth and preservation and protection of culture and heritage.